1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Neretva PE3690U Espresso Coffee Machine. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new appliance. Please read all instructions carefully before first use and retain this manual for future reference.
2. Important Safety Instructions
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, including the following:
- Read all instructions before operating the appliance.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, do not immerse cord, plugs, or appliance in water or other liquid.
- Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
- Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Contact customer service for examination, repair, or adjustment.
- The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may result in fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to 'off', then remove plug from wall outlet.
- Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
- Scalding may occur if the water tank lid is removed during the brewing cycle.
- This appliance is for household use only.
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Neretva PE3690U Espresso Coffee Machine before operation.
Image: Labeled diagram showing the espresso machine, water tank, cup plate, manual, funnel (portafilter), and coffee spoon.
Components:
- Espresso Machine Main Unit
- Water Tank (1.6L, removable)
- Cup Plate (warming tray)
- Portafilter (Funnel)
- Coffee Spoon / Tamper
- Drip Tray (detachable)
- Steam Wand
Image: The Neretva PE3690U Espresso Machine in a kitchen setting, actively brewing espresso into shot glasses and frothing milk in a pitcher.
4. Setup
4.1 Unpacking and Initial Cleaning
- Remove all packaging materials and labels.
- Wash the water tank, portafilter, filter basket, coffee spoon, and drip tray in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
4.2 Filling the Water Tank
- Remove the removable water tank from the back of the machine.
- Fill the tank with fresh, cold water up to the 'MAX' level indicator. Do not exceed the maximum fill line.
- Place the water tank back into its position, ensuring it is securely seated.
Image: A close-up view demonstrating how to remove and replace the water tank on the espresso machine.
4.3 Power Connection and Priming
- Place the machine on a stable, flat, heat-resistant surface.
- Ensure the power switch is in the 'OFF' position.
- Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
- Priming the Machine (First Use or after extended non-use): This step is crucial to ensure water flows through the system.
- Fill the water tank.
- Place a cup under the portafilter outlet (without coffee).
- Turn the machine 'ON'.
- Press the coffee brewing button and allow water to flow through until the cup is full. Repeat this process 2-3 times.
- Turn the steam knob to release steam for 10-15 seconds, then close it. This primes the steam system.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Making Espresso
- Preheat: Turn on the machine and allow it to preheat for approximately 2-3 minutes. The indicator light will show when it's ready.
- Prepare Coffee Grounds: Use freshly ground coffee. A fine grind is recommended for espresso.
- Fill Portafilter: Place the filter basket into the portafilter. Add the desired amount of ground coffee (single or double shot).
- Tamp: Use the tamper end of the coffee spoon to firmly press the coffee grounds. Ensure the surface is level.
- Attach Portafilter: Insert the portafilter into the group head and twist firmly to the right until it is securely locked.
- Place Cup: Position your espresso cup(s) on the drip tray directly under the portafilter spouts.
- Brew Espresso: Press the coffee brewing button. The machine will start extracting espresso. Monitor the pressure gauge; optimal extraction is typically between 8-12 bar.
- Stop Brewing: Once the desired volume of espresso is reached (usually 25-30ml per shot), press the coffee brewing button again to stop the flow.
- Remove Portafilter: Carefully twist the portafilter to the left to remove it. Be cautious as it will be hot. Discard the used coffee grounds.
Image: A close-up of the espresso machine's portafilter during coffee extraction, showing the rich crema and a pressure gauge indicating the optimal 8-12 bar range for best coffee extraction.
5.2 Frothing Milk
- Prepare Milk: Fill a stainless steel frothing pitcher with cold milk (dairy or non-dairy) to just below the spout.
- Activate Steam: Turn the steam knob to the steam position. Allow a few seconds for any condensed water to purge from the wand into an empty cup, then close the knob.
- Position Wand: Immerse the tip of the steam wand just below the surface of the milk.
- Start Frothing: Open the steam knob fully. Hold the pitcher at an angle, moving it slightly up and down to incorporate air and create foam.
- Heat Milk: Once desired foam is achieved, lower the wand deeper into the milk to heat it to the desired temperature (around 140-150°F or 60-65°C).
- Stop Steam: Close the steam knob, then remove the pitcher.
- Clean Wand: Immediately wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth to prevent milk residue from drying. Briefly open the steam knob again to purge any milk from inside the wand.
Image: A close-up view of the espresso machine's steam wand actively frothing milk in a metal pitcher, illustrating the powerful steam system.
Image: An internal diagram highlighting the pure copper steam valve, designed to maintain stable pressure for consistent milk frothing, contrasted with an aluminum valve.
6. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure optimal performance and longevity of your espresso machine.
6.1 Daily Cleaning
- Portafilter and Filter Basket: After each use, remove the portafilter, discard coffee grounds, and rinse the portafilter and filter basket under running water.
- Drip Tray: Empty and rinse the detachable drip tray daily or when the indicator shows it is full.
- Steam Wand: As mentioned in the frothing section, wipe and purge the steam wand immediately after each use.
- Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
6.2 Water Tank Cleaning
Clean the water tank weekly by removing it, washing with mild soap and water, rinsing thoroughly, and allowing it to air dry before reattaching.
6.3 Descaling
Over time, mineral deposits (limescale) can build up in the machine, affecting performance. Descale your machine every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you have hard water.
- Prepare a descaling solution according to the descaler manufacturer's instructions (or use a mixture of white vinegar and water, 1:1 ratio).
- Fill the water tank with the descaling solution.
- Place a large container under the portafilter and steam wand.
- Turn on the machine and run about half of the solution through the coffee brewing cycle (without coffee).
- Run the remaining solution through the steam wand until the tank is empty.
- Rinse the water tank thoroughly and fill it with fresh water.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 with fresh water to rinse out any descaling solution.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your espresso machine, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Machine unplugged, power outlet faulty, power switch off. | Check power cord connection, try a different outlet, ensure power switch is ON. |
| No water flow | Water tank empty, tank not seated correctly, machine not primed, pump airlocked. | Fill water tank, ensure tank is secure, prime the machine as per setup instructions. |
| Weak espresso, no crema | Coffee too coarse, not enough coffee, insufficient tamping, machine needs descaling. | Use finer grind, increase coffee amount, tamp more firmly, descale the machine. |
| No steam from wand | Steam wand blocked, machine not heated to steam temperature, machine not primed for steam. | Clean steam wand, allow machine to fully heat, prime steam system. |
| Water leaking from machine | Water tank not seated correctly, drip tray full, seal issues. | Ensure water tank is secure, empty drip tray, contact customer service if problem persists. |
8. Specifications
- Brand: Neretva
- Model Name: PE3690U
- Color: Vintage Green
- Product Dimensions: 9.6"D x 10.4"W x 12"H
- Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
- Special Feature: Programmable
- Operation Mode: Fully Automatic
- Coffee Input Type: Ground Coffee
- Pressure: 15 Bar
- Water Tank Capacity: 1.6 Liters
- Item Weight: 11.33 pounds
- UPC: 840166250761
Image: A diagram illustrating the dimensions of the Neretva PE3690U Espresso Machine: 10.6 inches high, 12 inches deep, and 9.4 inches wide.
9. Warranty and Support
Neretva is committed to providing quality products and customer satisfaction. This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or contact customer service.
If you have any questions, concerns, or require technical assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our highly trained Customer Service team. We aim to respond promptly within 24 hours to address any issues you may have with your coffee maker.
Contact Information: Please refer to the contact details provided on the product packaging or the official Neretva website for the most up-to-date support information.
